ROUNDUP: Automakers are demanding binding targets for charging infrastructure

BRUSSELS (dpa-AFX) – In an open letter, major car manufacturers and companies from other sectors have asked the EU to set national targets for the charging infrastructure for electric cars. A proposal by the EU Commission stipulates that from 2035 only zero-emission new vehicles may be registered across the EU. “EU policymakers must also set binding national targets for a seamless electric charging infrastructure that meets the growing demand for electric vehicles,” said Stuart Rowley, head of Ford (Ford Motor) Europe.

A binding and nationwide expansion of the charging infrastructure in all EU member states is absolutely necessary, said the President of the Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), Hildegard Müller, the German Press Agency. “The success of e-mobility stands and falls with the expansion of the charging infrastructure.”

The 27 signatory companies, including Ford, Volvo, Uber and Vattenfall, expressly support the EU Commission’s proposal for zero-emission vehicles. The European Parliament and the EU governments are expected to decide on their positions on the Commission’s proposal in June. A final law could be passed in autumn, but before that the legislators still have to agree on a compromise./ppz/DP/men